The only problem with the small claims court is there is no guarantee they will pay you even if you win.
I sought legal advice as I was left with all my exs debts which he has run up in my name on catalogue and credits cards etc. Mine was way over the value of a small claims court but she went through all scenarios with me. She saw all proof and agreed there was no doubt the debts were all his and his has admitted ownership multiple times, so I would win. But she said there is no guarantee it will be paid and it will just cost me more and more to enforce it. She told me this as she could see the kind of character he was just by his texts and emails. So I walked away.
When I was younger another ex did the same thing. But a much smaller value. He took out credit agreements and brought things using my bank details. I know, clearly I am stupid. I took him to a small claims court. It took 2 and a half years to clear his debt and I was always warned it may never be paid. I was incredibly lucky as for 30 months the cheques arrived in the post but when they were late the waiting around and constant worrying was absolutely horrible. I'm glad I did it but I was very lucky, as I was warned it was very likely he wouldn't pay it.
They decide based on the evidence you supply. Luckily with me it was all over text messages.... Thank god for mobile phones. I remember he was so arrogant in court just kept saying its a gift. She saw through him and without telling him he was a liar used the evidence to basically say he was lying to her.
I just wish I had learnt my lesson then.
My stupidity aside, the ex I sought legal advice about is my sons dad, so I expected there to be a lifetime there (though I was incredibly unhappy), I just expected we would be in each others live because of our child, but he chose to not has a relationship with him.
Small claims is defo worth pursuing of you have enough evidence in your favour, but then you have to decide if the upfront cost is worth it when you aren't guaranteed to get what you are owed.
Good luck